Bone Marrow Concentrate Therapy in Miami
Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) is an advanced regenerative treatment that uses your body’s own stem cells and growth factors to promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and support healing in damaged joints, tendons, and other musculoskeletal structures.
At our Miami clinic, Dr. William Bonner performs BMAC stem cell therapy as part of the Regenexx network — the world’s most advanced network of regenerative medicine physicians. Every procedure is performed under precise image guidance (ultrasound and fluoroscopy) to target specific structures and maximize treatment accuracy.
What Is Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC)?
BMAC is a regenerative therapy in which a small sample of bone marrow is collected from a patient’s own body — typically from the back of the pelvis — and then concentrated using specialized processing techniques. The resulting concentrate contains a high density of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), platelets, cytokines, and growth factors that play a key role in tissue repair and regeneration.
Because the treatment uses your own biologic material, there is no risk of immune rejection or allergic reaction. The entire procedure is performed in-office in a single visit.
How Does BMAC Differ From PRP Therapy?
Both BMAC and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are autologous regenerative treatments — meaning they use your own body’s healing factors. However, they differ in composition and potency:
| PRP Therapy | BMAC Stem Cell Therapy | |
| Source | Blood draw from arm | Bone marrow from pelvis |
| Key Components | Concentrated platelets and growth factors | Stem cells, platelets, cytokines, and growth factors |
| Regenerative Potential | Promotes healing and reduces inflammation | Supports tissue repair, regeneration, and new cell growth |
| Best Suited For | Mild to moderate soft tissue injuries, tendinitis, early arthritis | Moderate to advanced joint degeneration, bone marrow lesions, larger tissue injuries |
| Procedure Time | 30–60 minutes | 60–90 minutes |
Dr. Bonner will evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment — or a combination of both — based on your imaging findings, diagnosis, and goals.
Conditions Treated With Bone Marrow Concentrate Therapy
BMAC stem cell therapy may be appropriate for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
Knee Conditions
- Knee osteoarthritis
- Bone marrow lesions of the knee
- Meniscus tears
- ACL injuries and partial tears
- Cartilage damage and chondral defects
Hip Conditions
- Hip osteoarthritis
- Hip osteonecrosis (avascular necrosis)
- Hip labral tears
- Hip tendon tears
Shoulder Conditions
Spine Conditions
- Degenerative disc disease
- Facet joint pain
- Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction
Other Conditions
- Elbow tendinopathy (tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow)
- Ankle ligament and tendon injuries
- Plantar fasciitis
What to Expect During a BMAC Procedure
The entire bone marrow concentrate procedure is performed in a single day and typically takes 60 to 90 minutes to extract the bone marrow, another 60 minutes to process the bone marrow, and then 30 to 90 minutes for the procedure depending on the extent of the treatment. Here is what to expect:
Step 1: Bone Marrow Aspiration
A sample of bone marrow is drawn from the back of the pelvis using a specialized needle. The area is numbed with local anesthetic, and the aspiration is performed under fluoroscopic (X-ray) or utlrasound guidance to ensure precision and patient comfort.
Step 2: Concentration and Processing
The bone marrow sample is processed in-office to concentrate the stem cells, platelets, and growth factors into a small, highly potent volume. As part of the Regenexx network, we use proprietary lab processing techniques that have been refined over more than a decade of clinical use.
Step 3: Image-Guided Injection
The concentrated bone marrow is then injected precisely into the damaged area — whether that is a joint, tendon, ligament, or bone — using real-time ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance. This ensures the cells are delivered exactly where they are needed for maximum therapeutic benefit.
Why Choose a Regenexx Provider for Stem Cell Therapy?
Not all stem cell treatments are the same. As a Regenexx network provider, Dr. Bonner follows evidence-based protocols developed through the largest body of published research on bone marrow concentrate procedures in orthopedic medicine. Key advantages include:
- Proprietary lab processing that produces higher stem cell concentrations than standard bedside centrifuge kits
- All procedures performed under advanced image guidance (ultrasound and fluoroscopy) for precise cell placement
- Extensive outcome tracking through the Regenexx patient registry, allowing ongoing refinement of treatment protocols
- A physician network focused exclusively on interventional orthopedics and regenerative medicine — not a franchise or one-size-fits-all clinic
Who Is a Good Candidate for BMAC Stem Cell Therapy?
You may be a good candidate for bone marrow concentrate therapy if you:
- Have joint pain, cartilage loss, or tendon/ligament damage confirmed on imaging
- Have not responded adequately to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or standard injections
- Are looking for a non-surgical alternative to joint replacement or arthroscopic surgery
- Have bone marrow lesions contributing to persistent joint pain
- Are an active adult or athlete who wants to return to activity without the downtime of surgery
- Prefer a treatment that uses your own biologic material rather than synthetic drugs or implants
During your consultation, Dr. Bonner will review your medical history, imaging, and symptoms to determine whether BMAC therapy is appropriate for your specific condition and goals.
Recovery After Bone Marrow Concentrate Treatment
Most patients can return home the same day. Some soreness at the aspiration and injection sites is normal and typically resolves within a few days. Recovery varies by condition and area treated, but general guidelines include:
- You may resume light daily activities within 1–2 days
- A structured rehabilitation protocol is provided to support your recovery
- Initial improvement may be noticed within several weeks, with continued progress over 3 to 6 months as the regenerative process takes effect. Some patients may even take longer to see the benefits.
- NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen) should be avoided for a period after treatment, as they may interfere with the body’s healing response
Frequently Asked Questions About BMAC Therapy
Is bone marrow concentrate therapy safe?
When performed by a trained specialist using your own biologic material and under image guidance, BMAC therapy is generally considered safe. Because the cells come from your own body, there is no risk of immune rejection. As with any injection procedure, there are minor risks such as soreness or bruising at the procedure sites.
How is this different from the “stem cell clinics” I see advertised?
Many clinics advertising “stem cell therapy” use amniotic tissue or umbilical cord products, which have been shows to not contain live stem cells. BMAC uses your own living stem cells harvested and concentrated the same day. As a Regenexx provider, Dr. Bonner follows strict, evidence-based protocols with published outcome data — not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Will my insurance cover this treatment?
Most regenerative medicine procedures are not currently covered by insurance. Our office can provide you with detailed pricing information during your consultation. Many patients view this as an investment in avoiding more costly surgical procedures and the associated recovery time.
How many treatments will I need?
Treatment plans are individualized. Some patients experience significant improvement after a single procedure, while others may benefit from additional treatments depending on the severity and nature of their condition.
Can BMAC therapy help me avoid surgery?
For many patients, regenerative treatments like BMAC can delay or eliminate the need for surgery. However, outcomes depend on factors such as the type and severity of the condition, the patient’s overall health, and commitment to post-procedure rehabilitation. Dr. Bonner will give you an honest assessment of whether BMAC is a realistic option for your situation.
Can BMAC be combined with PRP?
Yes. In many cases, Dr. Bonner uses PRP in conjunction with BMAC as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. PRP may be used to treat surrounding soft tissue structures while BMAC targets the primary area of damage.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are dealing with chronic joint pain, a sports injury, or a condition like bone marrow lesions and want to explore whether bone marrow concentrate stem cell therapy is right for you, we are here to help.
Contact our Miami clinic to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bonner, or book online through ZocDoc for available appointment times (if you do not see availability, please reach out to us directly at 786-522-4959).